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The fourth cycle of the MIRAI exchange program was successfully completed: The visit to Japan served as a life experience for 13 young people from BP6

2024-02-23 19:33:00, Aktualitet CNA

The fourth cycle of the MIRAI exchange program was successfully completed: The

The reception at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan officially marked the end of the seven-day journey for the 13 young people from the Western Balkans, who visited the Land of the Sun as part of the "Japan Social Relations Program" - MIRAI. In cooperation with the Government of Japan, RYCO has implemented this project for four consecutive years with the aim of promoting mutual understanding, expanding intellectual discussion and building a strong network of future leaders.

From February 13-20, 13 young people selected through a highly competitive process with more than 400 applicants, had the opportunity to visit important historical sites and educational institutions in Tokyo and Hiroshima, and through dialogue and discussions deepen their knowledge on peace building and conflict resolution.

The fourth cycle of the MIRAI exchange program was successfully completed: The

Accompanied by the Head of the Local Office of RYCO in Serbia, Mrs. Marija Bulat, MIRAI participants had the opportunity to engage in a fruitful discussion on peacebuilding with students and a professor from Sofia University, where they shared their understanding of peace and through group work, offered solutions to overcome threats to peace.

“We visited the university and its campus, met with Japanese students and discussed with them their way of life, study and everything that makes up student life in Japan. It is an understatement to say that I came back from Japan with impressions that I will always carry with me, the kindness of the people I met and the beautiful places we had the opportunity to visit thanks to this program. I hope that other outstanding young people from the Western Balkans will also take advantage of this unique opportunity to visit the Land of the Sun in the coming years." said Dado Dervanovic, participant from Montenegro.

During the first days of the visit, the participants also learned about Japan's peacebuilding efforts through a visit to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and later, during their visit to Hiroshima, where they engaged in an in-depth discussion on the way Japan dealt with its past, especially the aftermath of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima.

Medinë Dauti, a participant from Kosovo, shared her impressions: "As someone who comes from a region scarred by conflict, the Hiroshima tour served me as a powerful catalyst for reflection and transformation. It challenged me to rethink my views on peacebuilding and reconciliation, prompting me to break free from the cycle of violence and embrace a more compassionate and inclusive approach to conflict resolution. The Hiroshima Memorial Park experience not only gave me a deeper understanding of the consequences of war, but also instilled in me a renewed sense of hope and determination to contribute to building a future where such atrocities will never be repeated. . It was a journey that not only healed a part of my heart, but also inspired me to actively pursue peace in all aspects of my life.”

The visit to Japan also provided unique cultural experiences, as 13 participants, including graduate and undergraduate students, and young professionals had the opportunity to learn about calligraphy and try their hand at this art of writing. On the last day of the visit, the MIRAI participants made an official visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, where they participated in the reporting session and shared their impressions about the program and the lessons learned during the visit that they will be able to share with their peers after returning home.

“My trip to Japan with the MIRAI visit program really changed my life. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the tranquil beauty of Hiroshima and Miyajima Island, Japan's hospitality, kindness and rich culture left an indelible mark on my heart. The Japanese people exemplify warmth and hospitality, their philosophy centered on self-discipline, respect and deep love for their nation. Unlike the Balkans, where punctuality and civic duty are often lacking, Japanese society thrives on a sense of responsibility for cleanliness, public order and national development. Their dedication to education as a cornerstone of progress, illustrated by initiatives to welcome foreign students, stands in stark contrast to the stagnation and division that prevails in some regions of the Balkans," said Blendi Hodai, a participant from North Macedonia. .

So far, about 70 young people from the Western Balkans region had the opportunity to participate in the MIRAI program, all sharing the impression of a life-changing experience that broadened their perspectives on intercultural relations, peacebuilding and networking.

The fourth cycle of the MIRAI exchange program was successfully completed: The

The positive impact of this program is an additional motivation for RYCO to continue its implementation in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, and the process for the selection of candidates will be opened at the end of the year in the form of a call published on the website of RYCO's. / CNA